Search Results (330)

The exponential growth of data generated by modern digital applications, including systems inspired by Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) requirements, has accelerated the adoption of NoSQL databases due to their scalability, flexibility, and performance advantages over traditional relational systems. Among document-oriented solutions, MongoDB and RavenDB stand out due to their architectural features and their ability to manage dynamic, large-scale datasets. This paper presents a comparative analysis of MongoDB and RavenDB, focusing on the performance of fundamental CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations. To ensure a controlled performance evaluation, a mobile and web application for managing product orders was implemented as a case study inspired by IIoT data characteristics, such as high data volume and frequent transactional operations, with experiments conducted on datasets ranging from 1000 to 1,000,000 records. Beyond the core CRUD evaluation, the study also investigates advanced operational scenarios, including joint processing strategies (lookup versus document inclusion), bulk data ingestion techniques, aggregation performance, and full-text search capabilities. These complementary tests provide deeper insight into the systems’ architectural strengths and their behavior under more complex and data-intensive workloads. The experimental results highlight MongoDB’s consistent performance advantage in terms of response time, particularly with large data volumes, while RavenDB demonstrates competitive behavior and offers additional benefits such as built-in ACID compliance, automatic indexing, and optimized mechanisms for relational retrieval and bulk ingestion. The analysis does not propose a new benchmarking methodology but provides practical insights for selecting an appropriate document-oriented database for data intensive mobile and web application contexts, including IIoT-inspired data characteristics, based on a controlled single-node experimental setting, while acknowledging the limitations of a single-host experimental environment. Full article

This paper discusses issues encountered during the early development of the instrument on the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), a NASA–ASI Small Explorer mission launched on 9 December 2021. IXPE has observed about 100 sources, yielding meaningful polarimetry for most of them. An on-board calibration system mitigated most non-ideal detector behaviors during operations. Data from the on-board polarized and unpolarized X-ray sources are routinely ingested by the flight pipeline to correct the instrument response in a manner transparent to users. Based on its scientific return and payload health, the IXPE mission has been extended through 2028. The lessons learned are informing the design of next-generation X-ray polarimetry missions, as discussed elsewhere in these conferences. Full article

Magnetic localization technology plays a significant role in medical device navigation and human–computer interaction. However, existing localization methods based on local optimization suffer from poor initial solutions and slow convergence. To address the aforementioned challenges, this paper presents a hybrid localization approach, referred to as the Improved Artificial Lemming Algorithm (IALA) Integrated with Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) Optimization. Building upon the Artificial Lemming Algorithm (ALA), the proposed method incorporates an adaptive Gaussian–Lévy hybrid mutation strategy designed to enhance search performance through improved exploration–exploitation dynamics, as quantitatively demonstrated by the diversity-based analysis where IALA maintains higher exploration percentages on multimodal functions while achieving superior optimization results on high-dimensional problems. By introducing a competitive foraging mechanism inspired by the aggressive behavior of the Tasmanian Devil Optimization (TDO) algorithm, it enhances population diversity and search initiative. Furthermore, a time-varying tracking and escape strategy is adopted to improve dynamic optimization performance in complex solution spaces. The proposed method leverages IALA to generate high-quality initial solutions, significantly accelerating the convergence speed and stability of the LM algorithm, thereby improving the overall performance of the permanent magnet localization system. The experimental results show that, using a horizontal test platform of 60 mm × 60 mm with 41 uniformly distributed test points, and acquiring data at vertical heights ranging from 15 mm to 65 mm in 5 mm increments for two distinct orientations of the permanent magnet, the IALA-LM algorithm achieves an average localization success rate of 96.9% over 902 trials, with a mean position error of 1.1 mm and a mean orientation error of 0.17°. Compared with the standard LM algorithm, the proposed IALA-LM algorithm reduces the position error by approximately 66.7% (from 3.3 mm to 1.1 mm) and the orientation error by approximately 94.3% (from 3.0° to 0.17°). Consequently, the proposed method enables high-precision, high-stability, and high-efficiency localization of permanent magnets. It can provide reliable spatial pose estimation support for demanding applications such as miniature implantable or ingestible medical devices (e.g., capsule endoscopy, intramedullary nail fixation, and tumor localization), human–computer interaction, and industrial inspection. Full article

Microplastics are very small particles of plastics, usually smaller than 5 mm. Microplastic pollution has emerged as a rising and challenging issue worldwide, posing serious threats to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems and human health. Because of global demand and frequent use in daily routines, including clothing, packaging, and household items, the production of plastic is increasing annually. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the source, classification (based on shape, color, polymer), transportation, and impact of microplastic pollution. Depending upon size, mass, and density, microplastics can be transported to the environment via air and water. However, microplastics can be inhaled and ingested by humans, causing various health issues; for example, aquatic organisms like small fish ingest microplastics, which accumulate through the food chain and end up in the human body. This can lead to physiological harm, including inflammation, digestion tract obstruction, biomagnification throughout the food chain, and reproductive failure. This study further highlighted initiatives taken by government agencies to address plastic and microplastic pollution across India; for example, The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has formulated and amended the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) rules, Mission LiFE (LiFEStyle for Environment) launched campaigns such as “Say No to Single Use Plastic” and “One Nation, One Mission: End Plastic Pollution” to create awareness at the grassroot level, and institutions like the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) have initiated a project to detect microplastics in food products. In addition, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has instructed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to actively take measures to address microplastic pollution across Indian cities, focusing on key parameters like air, water, food, and humans. This study presents several recommendations, including detection and removal techniques (conventional, advanced, and removal); strengthening legislative policies such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR); research collaboration and monitoring with institutions such as CSIR-IITR, ICAR-CIFT, and BITS-Pilani; integrating EPR and Material Recovery Facilities (MRF) to develop a circular economy model; and mass awareness through government initiatives like the Swachh Bharat and Smart City programs to foster long-term behavioral change. Full article

Background/Objectives: Blueberries are an important nutraceutical due to their excellent nutritional profile, with particularly high levels of polyphenols and anthocyanins. These compounds can improve mood, cognition, and health. As such, blueberry consumption can potentially benefit those coping with depression and anxiety. In this regard, there is an unmet need for novel, effective, and accessible treatments for these conditions, particularly in rural communities, where specialized health care is often limited. Methods: Therefore, we conducted a double-blind, randomized pilot study in a rural population to assess whether daily blueberry supplementation affected symptoms of anxiety and depression. We employed a crossover design to test the effects of 12 weeks daily ingestion of 24 g of whole freeze-dried blueberry powder versus placebo on symptoms of depression and anxiety in those diagnosed with a depressive or anxiety disorder including major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). We collected behavioral data (HDRS, GAD-7, MDI) at baseline, mid-, and post-treatment timepoints. We collected blood, serum, plasma, and behavioral data (HDRS, GAD-7, MDI) at baseline, mid-, and post-treatment timepoints. We measured inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-10 in serum, CRP in whole blood, and performed global metabolomics in plasma. Results: Blueberries significantly reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety compared to placebo. CRP and inflammatory cytokine levels were unaffected. Our global metabolomic measures suggested that different metabolites were differentially affected at the middle and post-intervention timepoints in the study. Conclusions: Overall, this study found potential improvements in symptoms of depression and anxiety following daily blueberry supplementation, although the biochemical mechanisms underlying these behavioral improvements remain unresolved. Full article

Background: Saliva sampling is increasingly used for respiratory virus diagnostics in dentistry and oral medicine due to patient comfort and reduced exposure risk. How routine behaviors—mechanical oral hygiene, rinsing, and food intake—affect short-term SARS-CoV-2 detectability remains insufficiently characterized for clinical workflows. Methods: In this international two-center pilot study, twelve RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients provided paired mouth-rinse saliva samples and pharyngeal swabs at predefined time points. The study assessed (I) an intensified 3 min mechanical oral hygiene protocol (toothbrushing of teeth, gingiva, tongue, and palate, followed by toothpaste–saliva gargling); (II) repeated short mouth rinses; and (III) postprandial sampling. Viral RNA was quantified by RT-PCR; Ct-trajectories were analyzed intra-individually. Results: Cycle threshold (Ct) values from pharyngeal swabs remained relatively stable over time, whereas mouth-rinse samples exhibited notable fluctuations throughout the 24 h period. An average increase of 3 Ct units was observed three minutes after the final mouth rinse (T24+3). Meal ingestion was associated with increased Ct values, rising by 4–5 units for pharyngeal swabs and 3–11 units for mouth rinses immediately after eating. Conclusions: In clinical dental settings, saliva diagnostics are feasible but acutely modulated by common behaviors. Mechanical oral hygiene, brief rinsing, and food intake can transiently reduce detectable oral SARS-CoV-2 RNA, with potential implications for timing of sampling, chairside triage, and infection-control protocols. This pilot study provides initial evidence supporting the development of standardized pre-analytical instructions (e.g., fasting window, pre-rinse policy, and sampling timing relative to oral hygiene and meals) to enhance the reliability of saliva-based testing in dental care. Full article

Background: Celiac disease (CeD) is a chronic, immune-mediated enteropathy triggered by gluten ingestion in genetically predisposed individuals. While a lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD) remains the cornerstone of treatment, inadequate follow-up can lead to persistent symptoms, nutritional deficiencies, and long-term complications. Aim: This narrative review summarizes best practices in celiac disease follow-up, with emphasis on multidisciplinary, nutritional, clinical, and preventive care strategies to optimize long-term outcomes. Main Findings: High-quality follow-up requires coordinated care involving gastroenterologists, dietitians, primary care providers, and other specialists. Nutritional challenges of the GFD include high cost, limited fortification, suboptimal nutrient content, and increased risk of obesity and metabolic dysfunction. Patients also face psychosocial and behavioral burdens such as anxiety, social isolation, and disordered eating. Evidence-based strategies for follow-up include structured clinical and serologic monitoring, laboratory assessments, bone health evaluation, cancer risk reduction, and preventive care. Novel tools such as gluten immunogenic peptide testing, digital health platforms, and artificial intelligence are emerging as adjuncts to clinical management. Implications: Structured, patient-centered follow-up that integrates medical, nutritional, and psychosocial dimensions is essential to achieving mucosal healing, maintaining long-term health, and improving quality of life in individuals with CeD. Full article

Plant viruses can significantly influence the behavior and performance of their insect vectors, with profound implications for viral epidemiology. However, studies on the effects of co-infection with multiple plant viruses on vector feeding behavior remain scarce, despite its frequent occurrence in nature and potential for altered transmission outcomes. Bemisia tabaci MED, a key vector insect, is closely linked to the rapid spread of tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV) and tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) in China. In this study, the electrical penetration graph (EPG) technique was employed to investigate and compare the indirect (via infected plants) and direct (via viruliferous insects) effects of ToCV alone and ToCV and TYLCV co-infection on the feeding behaviors of B. tabaci MED. The results revealed that whiteflies on ToCV-infected or ToCV&TYLCV co-infected plants exhibited significantly longer non-probing durations compared to those on un-infected plants. The intracellular puncture activity of whiteflies was markedly reduced on virus-infected plants, and ToCV infection particularly shortened the duration of phloem sap ingestion. Moreover, viruliferous whiteflies (carrying ToCV or both viruses) spent less time in the intercellular pathway phase. Specifically, ToCV-viruliferous whiteflies had a shorter first-probe duration than non-viruliferous ones. The time from the first probe to the first E phase was also shorter in viruliferous whiteflies, especially in those carrying both ToCV and TYLCV. Furthermore, a significant difference was observed in the total duration of phloem sap ingestion between ToCV-viruliferous and ToCV&TYLCV-viruliferous whiteflies. These findings indicate that both ToCV infection and ToCV&TYLCV co-infection can modulate whitefly feeding behaviors through indirect and direct manners, with co-infection eliciting unique behavioral changes. These insights are valuable for elucidating the negative impact of ToCV-infected and ToCV&TYLCV co-infected tomato plants on whitefly performance, and for uncovering the mechanisms underlying the epidemics of these viruses. Full article

Sand ingestion exerts significant effects on the performance of helicopter engines, and it is imperative to investigate this phenomenon. In this study, the mechanisms of engine sand ingestion during helicopter hover in ground effect are analyzed. Firstly, a coupled computational model is established based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and the discrete element method (DEM). The aerodynamic calculation accuracy of this model is validated by comparing the pressure coefficient and tip vortex with wind tunnel test results. Subsequently, based on this method, a systematic simulation is carried out to investigate the flow field dynamics and sand cloud distribution for the helicopter at different ground-effect heights (GEHs, h). Simulation results indicate that helicopter engines can potentially directly ingest sand particles from the ground at low GEHs. When h > 2R (where R is the rotor radius), the height of sand clouds is insufficient for helicopter engines to ingest sand. Finally, guided by the simulation conclusions, a rotor test bench is designed to conduct research on sand ingestion by helicopter engines. It aims to further study how GEH and engine intake flowrate (Q) affect sand ingestion amount and distribution across the inlet cross-section. Experimental results demonstrate that the sand ingestion amount exhibits a nonlinear decreasing trend with the increasing GEH and a positive correlation with Q. At h = 0.5R, the engine directly ingests sand particles from the ground sand field, leading to a significant increase in sand ingestion. The increase reaches 11 times that at other GEHs. For the right-handed rotor in this study, the sand ingestion of the right engine is significantly higher than that of the left engine. Furthermore, for the cross-sectional position of the engine inlet in this study, over 60% of sand particles are ingested through the upper region. The research can provide scientific guidance for the design of particle separators and is of great significance for helicopter engine sand prevention. Full article

The dynamic behavior and biologically mediated transformation of microplastics (MPs) in crustaceans remain insufficiently explored in aquatic ecotoxicology. In this study, we employed the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) as a model organism to systematically investigate the accumulation, distribution, fragmentation, and excretion kinetics of MPs within its digestive system under controlled conditions. We exposed crayfish to fluorescent polystyrene microplastics (50 μm) at a high concentration (100,000 particles/L), which exceeded typical environmental levels but was necessary to track accumulation and fragmentation dynamics within the experimental timeframe, and dissections were performed at 24, 48, and 96 h. Spatiotemporal patterns and morphological changes in MPs were analyzed using advanced microscopic imaging techniques. The results revealed a peak in MP accumulation at 48 h, followed by a decrease at 96 h, suggesting a dynamic equilibrium between ingestion and elimination. Over time, particle sizes decreased significantly, a result consistent with microplastic fragmentation. Additionally, feed supplementation during depuration was associated with increased fragmentation efficiency. Morphological analysis showed digestion-induced changes such as surface wrinkling, irregular edges, and particle shrinkage. These findings elucidate the transformation mechanisms of microplastics within crustaceans and provide crucial insights for assessing their potential ecological risks and fate as pollutants. Based on results from high-concentration short-term laboratory exposure studies, this paper further indicates the necessity for in-depth exploration into the long-term dynamics of microplastics within aquatic organisms and the potential for their transfer across trophic levels. Full article

Sea turtles, particularly the opportunistic feeder species loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), are increasingly reported as a source of disturbance to mussel farming operations, especially in the Adriatic Sea. Despite the evident damage caused by these interactions, comprehensive national data on the phenomenon are still lacking. This study aimed to address this gap through a survey conducted among Italian mussel farmers, combined with the analysis of gastrointestinal contents from stranded sea turtles along the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coasts, focusing on the ingestion of Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis). Survey results revealed frequent turtle sightings in the northern Adriatic (Veneto and Emilia-Romagna) during summer months (June to August), while southern regions (Molise and Puglia) reported more sightings in autumn (September to October), likely influenced by seasonal water temperatures. The Mediterranean mussel was identified as the most commonly ingested mollusk in the Adriatic, with a notable increase in presence from 2018 to 2021. Although mussels are not a targeted prey, they appear to be a consistent dietary component due to adaptive feeding behavior. These interactions are increasingly and consistently reported, leading to significant management challenges for mussel farms. Based on these findings, a broader national and international assessment is recommended to evaluate the overall impact of sea turtles on shellfish aquaculture in the Mediterranean. Full article

Control strategies for leishmaniasis increasingly target sand fly vectors through sugar feeding approaches containing bioactive compounds. This study investigated the behavioral and toxicological effects of the iridoids plumericin and isoplumericin, isolated from Himatanthus sucuuba, on Lutzomyia longipalpis by integrating computational and experimental approaches focused on gustatory system interactions. The iridoids were purified by column chromatography and characterized by GC-MS. The gustatory receptor A0A1B0CHD5 was structurally characterized through homology modeling, followed by molecular docking and 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations. Behavioral assays evaluated survival, repellency, and feeding preferences using sugar solutions supplemented with an iridoid mixture. Toxicity was assessed in Drosophila melanogaster as a non-target organism model. Molecular docking results revealed comparable binding affinities between sucrose (ChemPLP score 57.96) and the iridoids plumericin (49.08) and isoplumericin (47.75). Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of the ligand–receptor complexes and revealed distinct conformational changes. The iridoids did not affect L. longipalpis survival, showed no repellency, and did not reduce sugar feeding acceptance. Preference for the control diet was observed only after continuous exposure (48 h), suggesting involvement of post-ingestive sensory processing. No acute toxicity was observed in D. melanogaster (96% survival). These findings demonstrate that iridoids preserve vector feeding behavior and survival while exhibiting low toxicity to non-target organisms, supporting their potential use in gustatory modulation strategies in leishmaniasis vector control without compromising ecological safety. Full article

Increased precipitation and extreme weather due to climate change can remobilize recent and legacy environmental contaminants from soil, sediment, and sewage overflows. Heavy metals are naturally distributed in Earth’s crust, but anthropogenic activity has resulted in concentrated emissions of toxic heavy metals and deposition in surrounding communities. Cities around the world are burdened with heavy metal pollution from past and present industrial activity. The city of Camden, NJ, represents a valuable case study of climate impacts on heavy metal mobilization in stormwater runoff due to similar legacy and present-day industrial pollution that has taken place in Camden and in many other cities. Various studies have shown that lead (Pb) and other toxic heavy metals have been emitted in Camden due to historic and recent industrial activity, and deposited in nearby soils and on impervious surfaces. However, it is not known if these heavy metals can be mobilized in urban stormwater, particularly after periods of high precipitation. In this study, Camden, NJ stormwater was collected from streets and parks after heavy rain events in the winter and spring for analysis with inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to identify lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), and arsenic (As). Lead was by far the most abundant of the four target elements in stormwater samples followed by Hg, Cd, and As. The locations with the highest Pb concentrations, up to 686.5 ppb, were flooded allies and streets between commercial and residential areas. The highest concentrations of Hg (up to 11.53 ppb, orders of magnitude lower than Pb) were found in partially flooded streets and ditches. Lead stormwater concentrations exceed EPA safe drinking levels at the majority of analyzed locations, and Hg stormwater concentrations exceed EPA safe drinking levels at all analyzed locations. While stormwater is not generally ingested, dermal contact and hand-to-mouth behavior by children are potential routes of exposure. Heavy metal concentrations were lower in stormwater collected from parks and restored areas of Camden, indicating that these areas have a lower heavy metal exposure risk. This study shows that heavy metal pollution can be mobilized in stormwater runoff, resulting in elevated exposure risk in industrial cities. Full article

Due to their zoonotic potential and close interaction with humans, feline parasitic infections are an important public health concern. This study investigated 2758 domiciled and feral cats sampled across Mexico to assess the occurrence of parasites, coinfections, and associated risk factors. Twelve genera of parasites were identified, with Ancylostoma and Ctenocephalides being the most frequent. Coinfections were common, often involving both intestinal and ectoparasites. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that feral lifestyle, absence of recent antiparasitic treatment, female sex, and climatic conditions were significant predictors of infection. Cats with unrestricted outdoor access and direct contact with other cats, where hunting behavior and the ingestion of prey cannot be ruled out (ESCCAP risk group B), were more than five times as likely to be infected as those cats that live indoors (ESCCAP risk group A). Although antiparasitic use was reported in some cats, inappropriate drug choice and long treatment intervals reduced effectiveness, while nearly seven out of ten cats had never received treatment. These findings highlight major gaps between current practices in Mexico and international guidelines. Strengthening surveillance, promoting owner education, and implementing risk-based strategies are critical to reducing feline parasitism and associated zoonotic risks within a One Health framework. Full article

The climbing perch, Anabas testudineus, is one of the most widely distributed freshwater amphibious fishes in South and Southeast Asia, inhabiting both natural and artificial water bodies polluted by plastic waste. Current mesocosm experimental study aimed to investigate behavioral responses of wild fish to floating expanded polystyrene (EPS) pellets, with a focus on the biofilm developing on their surface. For biofilm formation, the pellets (diameter 3–4 mm) were exposed for two, six, and fourteen days in an irrigation canal inhabited by climbing perch. Development of an intensive biofilm was observed on days 6 and 14 of exposure, characterized by a high diversity of organisms, including protozoa, cyanobacteria, algae, amoebae, and fungi. Fish feeding behavior was observed in the presence of feed pellets, clean EPS pellets, and three variants of EPS pellets with biofilm developed on their surfaces in the freshwater environment. The fish rapidly grasped and ingested feed pellets compared to all variants of plastic pellets. Climbing perch grasped all types of EPS pellets but always rejected them after oral cavity testing. The time to the first grasp was significantly longer for both clean EPS and EPS exposed for two days compared to feed pellets. Biofilm appeared to function as a taste deterrent for the fish: the duration of oral cavity testing was negatively correlated with the EPS pellet exposure timings in natural conditions. We suggest that floating plastic stimulates foraging behavior in the fish, and the duration of this behavior was significantly longer than that observed with feed pellets. The similarity of positive buoyant EPS pellets to natural food objects may stimulate the fish movements towards the water surface, which likely results in greater energy expenditure and increased risk of predation, without any apparent benefit to the individual. Full article